Landfill fires and associated environmental and health risks
Landfill fires and associated environmental and health risks
Issue: 3/2025
Recevied: April 25, 2025
Accepted: June 15, 2025
Published: June 17, 2025
Authors:
J. Bąk-Badowska, I. Żeber-Dzikowska, B. Wójtowicz, K. Makowski, J. Chmielewski
Categories: Review paper, Pollution and environment, Medicine and veterinary
DOI: 10.5601/jelem.2025.30.2.3563
Abstract:
A fire or open burning of waste are significant sources of emissions that contribute to environmental pollution and can have negative impacts on public health. The objective of this publication is to highlight the potential health effects associated with emissions from landfill fires and to organize existing knowledge while incorporating the results of the recent studies. Research methods: A review of studies on the adverse health effects of landfill fires has been conducted. The literature review was carried out by searching through databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, covering the years 2020-2024. The selection of subject classification entries was used as a criterion for analyzing bibliographic data. Additionally, a thorough examination of the literature, references and relevant legislation was conducted to identify the specific risks associated with exposure to hazardous substances released into the environment during landfill fires. Results: Based on the conducted review of the literature, correlation between health outcomes and environmental pressure from landfill fires has been observed. Conclusions: To enhance the fire safety of landfills, it is crucial to take measures to reduce the amount of landfilled waste. Inspection activities in the organization of fire safety of landfills should be strengthened. Educational activities aimed at raising public awareness of landfills, including the possible health effects associated with landfill fires, should be implemented.
Citation:
JELEM / HARVARD

Bąk-Badowska, J., Żeber-Dzikowska, I., Wójtowicz, B., Makowski, K. and Chmielewski, J. (2025) 'Landfill fires and associated environmental and health risks, Journal of Elementology, 30(3), 421-432, available: https://doi.org/10.5601/jelem.2025.30.2.3563
MDPI

Bąk-Badowska, J.; Żeber-Dzikowska, I.; Wójtowicz, B.; Makowski, K.; Chmielewski, J. Landfill fires and associated environmental and health risks, J. Elem. 2025, 30, 3, 421-432. https://doi.org/10.5601/jelem.2025.30.2.3563
AMA

Bąk-Badowska J, Żeber-Dzikowska I, Wójtowicz B, Makowski K, Chmielewski J. Landfill fires and associated environmental and health risks. J. Elem. 2025;30(3): 421-432. https://doi.org/10.5601/jelem.2025.30.2.3563
CHICAGO

Bąk-Badowska Jolanta, Żeber-Dzikowska Ilona, Wójtowicz Bożena, Makowski Kamil, Chmielewski Jarosław. 2025. "Landfill fires and associated environmental and health risks" J. Elem. 30, no.3, 421-432. https://doi.org/10.5601/jelem.2025.30.2.3563
Keywords:
fire, waste, landfills, environment, health
About issue:
30.3.2025
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